Packed with ocean-fresh taste and satisfying textures, these seafood appetizers make a memorable start to any meal. From tender bites to zesty, seasoned creations, each dish highlights the natural flavors of the seafood without overwhelming them. Quick techniques and thoughtful seasoning make preparation easy, while presentation keeps every plate looking as good as it tastes. Perfect for entertaining or casual gatherings, these starters prove that seafood can be exciting, approachable, and full of character.

Pickled Shrimp

Pickled Shrimp. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Tangy, zesty, and full of bold flavors, these pickled shrimp make an exciting appetizer for any occasion. The bright vinegar and seasoning complement the natural sweetness of the shrimp. Perfect for entertaining or a casual gathering, they’re easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Shrimp

Smoked Salmon Dip

Smoked Salmon Dip. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Creamy and rich with a subtle smokiness, this smoked salmon dip is a crowd-pleasing starter. Spread it on crackers, toast, or fresh veggies for an easy appetizer that feels indulgent. Its smooth texture and flavorful punch make it ideal for parties or casual get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Dip

Creamy Coconut Shrimp Buffet Style- Quick and Easy

Juicy shrimp cooked in creamy coconut sauce, just like buffet-style on a black plate.
Creamy Coconut Shrimp Buffet Style- Quick and Easy. Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Tender shrimp coated in a creamy coconut sauce deliver a sweet and savory bite that’s irresistible. Adapted from a popular Chinese buffet style, this dish is simple to make at home. Perfect as an appetizer or part of a seafood spread, it’s a guaranteed hit with guests.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Coconut Shrimp Buffet Style- Quick and Easy

Thai Fish Cakes

Thai fish cakes on a black plate with prik nam pla.
Thai Fish Cakes. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Packed with aromatic Thai curry paste, cilantro, and a hint of fish sauce, these Thai fish cakes offer layers of bold flavor. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they’re perfect as an appetizer or snack. Serve with a tangy dipping sauce for a truly memorable bite.
Get the Recipe: Thai Fish Cakes

Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Appetizer

A person holding a cucumber with shrimp and guacamole.
Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Appetizer. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Light, refreshing, and ready in just 30 minutes, this shrimp and cucumber appetizer is perfect for last-minute entertaining. The crisp cucumber pairs beautifully with tender shrimp and a tangy dressing. Simple, fresh, and flavorful, it’s ideal for summer gatherings or casual meals.
Get the Recipe: Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Appetizer

Air Fryer Calamari

Air-fried calamari rings garnished with parsley and lemon wedges on a white plate.
Air Fryer Calamari. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Crispy and golden, this air fryer calamari delivers all the crunch you love without deep-frying. Coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and cooked in minutes, it’s a lighter, healthier alternative. Serve with a zesty dipping sauce for a quick, impressive appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Calamari

Crab Cream Cheese Wontons

A plate of crab wontons garnished with green onions.
Crab Cream Cheese Wontons. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

Crispy wontons stuffed with savory crab and creamy cheese make for a delicious finger food option. Faster and more affordable than takeout, they’re perfect for parties or casual snacking. Every bite is crunchy, flavorful, and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Crab Cream Cheese Wontons

Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp

Panko shrimp with dipping sauce.
Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Golden, crunchy panko-coated shrimp are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Each bite delivers a perfect combination of texture and flavor. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for a simple yet impressive appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp

Tuna Stuffed Avocados

A glass bowl of tuna salad with pickles and multiple avocados stuffed with the salad around it.
Tuna Stuffed Avocados. Photo credit: Fitasamamabear.

Creamy avocado halves filled with flavorful tuna make a protein-packed appetizer or snack. Quick to assemble, they’re light, satisfying, and visually appealing. Ideal for healthy entertaining or a simple meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Stuffed Avocados

Refreshing Colombian Ceviche with Pear, Fennel, and Mango

A bowl of Colombian ceviche with pear, fennel, and mango.
Refreshing Colombian Ceviche with Pear, Fennel, and Mango. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Bright, tangy, and fruity, this Colombian ceviche combines fresh fish, sweet mango, crisp pear, and aromatic fennel. Light and refreshing, it’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings. The vibrant flavors make it both a show-stopping appetizer and a healthy option.
Get the Recipe: Refreshing Colombian Ceviche with Pear, Fennel, and Mango

Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer or Oven

Bacon wrapped shrimp on a white plate with dipping sauce.
Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer or Oven. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Sweet, smoky, and savory, these bacon-wrapped shrimp are always a hit. Cooked in the air fryer or oven, they’re easy to prepare and perfect for entertaining. Bite-sized and packed with flavor, they make a stunning appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer or Oven

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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